How can I tell if my United ticket is Basic Economy? United Basic Economy tickets will be notated upon booking, and are marked as the “most restrictive” fare. Most often, these tickets are fare class N.

In 2026, the easiest way to tell is by looking at your boarding group and baggage allowance in the United app. Basic Economy (Fare Class N) is strictly restricted: you are assigned to the very last boarding group (Group 6) and are not allowed a full-sized carry-on bag (only a personal item that fits under the seat) on domestic and short-haul flights. A supportive peer "check-in" tip: if you try to select a seat and the app prompts you to pay for every single option, or if your ticket says "No changes allowed," you are likely in Basic Economy. Standard Economy (Economy/Main) allows you one carry-on, one personal item, and the ability to change your flight for a fare difference. Always verify your "Fare Class" on your confirmation email; if it explicitly says "Basic Economy," you'll need to pay a surcharge at the airport if you bring a suitcase for the overhead bin.